Personal Branding Weekly – Readers are Leaders

In 23 days, 2014 will arrive! Because my work is highly focused on small business owners, they are doing one or more of the following as 2013 comes to an end:

Hustling like crazy – selling products and services.

Reviewing 2013 and setting goals and strategies for 2014.

Moaning that no one will make a decision until 2014.

Deciding if they’re going to still be in business for 2014.

Choosing to focus on family and what matters most to them as they’re deep in the midst of the holiday season.

Let me add a sixth choice in the mix – read.

I know we read status updates, texts, and sometimes even posts. In this post, what I’m referring to is books. Now, I’m the first one to tell you if a book seems promising and as you delve into it realize that it’s not all you thought it would be or wanted, then shelve it (put it up on the shelf). Perhaps later it may mean more. Perhaps later after you’ve had a little bit more experiential knowledge, it will reveal more. Or, perhaps it’s an entire waste of time. Shelve it and revisit it later to make the best decision on that.

What I’ve found provides the best possible book list that will be of value to me is to ask others. Other people’s experience (that valuable O.P.E.) lets you benefit from other people’s efforts and time without having to sacrifice your own.

With that focus, what are you currently reading? (share your list in the comment section below)

I learn from our fellow authors here and from your comments about resources that never ever show up on my radar. I’m looking forward to you sharing your list!

Here’s what I’m reading right now. Some are new, and some are old books that I’m re-reading. You’ll find lots of wisdom that you missed out on in old books after you have a little bit more experience under your belt.

To make it easier for you to share with others (because when you are seen as a hub of helpfulness in any aspect of someone’s life – they turn to you for resources and assistance in all areas of their life), here are some tweetables:

The 5 year question in an interview is meant to show you have personal insight and have spent time reflecting your goals. http://ow.ly/rwdlu[tweet this]

Maria Elena Duron is a connector, trainer and coach. Small Business Owners that work with Maria Elena develop a profitable relationship building system, appeal to their brand advocates, and increase sales. Take the uncertainty out of how your personal and business brand delivers business -Get Your Checklist.

Thank you, Merlin! I am enjoying your book and cannot wait to finish it. I feel like I’m across the table, having a drink with you and learning!
Sure! As Editor-in-Chief, this is a weekly roundup I do of our posts and of the week so it’s is definitely diverse and content rich. I appreciate you taking the time to read the post and comment, Merlin!